Eunice H. (Lovejoy) McIlwain, 97, long time resident of Ellenton, PA passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2024, following a brief stay at the Darway Nursing Home in Estella. Eunice was born May 6, 1927, in the Canton area, a daughter of the late Harry and Jennie (Beck) Lovejoy. She attended Canton area schools and was a graduate of the class of 1944. On March 3, 1946, Eunice married her soulmate, Joseph McIlwain in the Grace EUB Church in Ellenton. Together they shared 56 years of marriage and raised six children until Joe's passing in 2002. She was a member of the Shunk United Methodist Church and the former North Union Grange No. 784.

Eunice enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles. Listening to Christian music, sewing and quilting were other favorite past times for Eunice. She especially loved making wedding gowns for her daughters. Eunice's life encompassed the loved she shared in her home and with family.

She leaves behind her daughters; Lucy Gibbs, of Ellenton and Connie (John) Hess, of Nescopeck, sons; Joseph McIlwain, of Killeen, Texas, Leon McIlwain, of Hinesville, Ga., and Kieth McIlwain, of Great Falls, Mont., son-in-law; Tom Konkle of Williamsport, 11 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides her parents and husband, Eunice was predeceased by a daughter; Linnet Konkle, and siblings and their spouses; Thelma (John) Page, Wayne (Jane) Lovejoy, an infant Keith Lovejoy and daughter-in-law; Donna McIlwain.
Friends may call 1 p.m. to 2p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the Ellenton Chapel located on Ellenton Mountain Rd. (village of Ellenton, PA) A memorial service to honor Eunice's life will follow at 2 p.m. with her friend and neighbor, Rev. Herbert Eby officiating. Burial will be after the service in the Ellenton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ellenton Chapel c/o 189 McIlwain Rd., Canton, PA 17724 in Mrs. McIlwain's loving memory.

Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences to her family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com